Govt Releases R18+ Discussion Paper For Public Consultation

The Federal Government has this afternoon released a discussion paper on the merits of an R18+ classification for video games. The move is part of a round of public consultation on the issue that will continue until the end of February next year.

The paper contains a brief overview of the National Classification Scheme and outlines the arguments both for and against the introduction of an R18+ rating for video games. It also describes how the Australian public may make a submission and let their voices be heard in the debate.

Briefly, the key arguments against are:

* Computer games should be treated differently from films given the specific, negative effects of interactivity on players, particularly their participation in violent and aggressive content.
* It would be difficult for parents to enforce age restrictions for computer games.
* Minors would be more likely to be exposed to computer games that are unsuitable for them.
* An R 18+ for computer games would exacerbate problems associated with access to high level material in Indigenous communities and by other non-English speaking people
* There is no demonstrated need to change existing restrictions.

And, the key arguments for are:

* The R 18+ classification category sends a clear, unambiguous message to parents that the game material is unsuitable for minors
* Consistent classification categories for films and computer games are easier to understand
* A new classification will supplement technological controls on minors’ access to age inappropriate computer games
* Adults should not be prevented from playing R 18+ level computer games simply because they are unsuitable for minors
* Comparable international classification systems have an adult rating for computer games – international parity is desirable
* Consumers access games which would be R 18+ illegally – it would be better if they were legally available with appropriate restrictions

Please download the full discussion paper at the link below, along with the instructions on how to make a submission.

An R18+ Classification for Computer Games – Public Consultation
[Attorney-General’s Dept]


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